Buriram: Sophon Saram, President of the Parliament and Speaker of the House of Representatives, along with Mr. Sak Saram, Member of Parliament for Buriram Province, visited Ban Mai Chaiyaphot District to inaugurate the '5th Integrated Drug Addiction Prevention Camp.' This event, taking place from May 14-23, 2026, at Wat Luwanaram in Nong Waeng Subdistrict, aims to provide a comprehensive approach to drug rehabilitation. The ceremony saw the participation of high-ranking officials, government officers, local administration representatives, public health officials, police officers, community leaders, and parents.
According to Thai News Agency, the project has garnered strong cooperation from various sectors in the area. Leaders such as Phra Khru Phichit Wannapiram, abbot of Nong Waeng Subdistrict; Mr. Atthaphon Sonsakul, district chief of Ban Mai Chaiyaphot; and Pol. Col. Aram Phutachali, superintendent of Ban Mai Chaiyaphot Police Station, were instrumental in its execution. Support also came from the Anattaphan Saram (Luk Teng) Foundation and local village health volunteers.
The opening ceremony included a recitation of precepts led by Mr. Sophon, who also offered alms to monks and guided participants in an oath to abstain from drug use. Participants presented flower arrangements to their guardians as a gesture of apology and commitment to change.
Mr. Sophon addressed the participants, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts through "love and faith" to tackle the drug issue. The program at the camp integrates Buddhist teachings with medical care from doctors, nurses, and public health officials. It features a 10-day curriculum incorporating self-exploration, self-control, group therapy, personality development, and physical training, guided by police officers and volunteers.
The program also includes vocational training organized by the Buriram Provincial Institute for Skills Development. Participants engage in an 18-hour course focusing on technical skills like masonry and repair work, concluding with a certificate. For those interested in further education, the project offers opportunities to continue their skills development. Participants are also provided with tools to help establish their future careers.